Grey Seals and Humans - A Dangerous Mix

News Release

January 25, 2008
MONCTON -- Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) advises members of the public to be extremely cautious if they come across grey seals along our shores. While seals may appear to be "cute and cuddly," they are wild animals and should not be approached. Like all untamed animals, seals may respond aggressively by attacking if they are cornered or believe they are being threatened, which could result in serious human injuries requiring medical attention.
DFO reminds the public that under the Marine Mammals Regulations it is illegal to disturb seals. This includes the presence of unleashed pets near seal herds. If there is reason to believe that a seal is injured or suffering, we ask that you contact your local DFO office and recommend that you do not try to help the animal yourself.
At this time of year females normally give birth to their pups on the ice flows and on a few small islands in the Northumberland Strait. In years with minimal ice it is not unusual for the females to come ashore on local beaches to have their pups. At about three weeks after birth, the females will abandon their pups. These seal pups will remain on shore for another two to three weeks during which they moult, shedding their white coat for a mottled grey one. Once moulted, and having depleted their reserve of fat, they enter the water and begin foraging. Once they have fed, seals will come out of the water and rest for periods as long as 48 hours. It is quite normal to see a young seal resting on the shore.
For a large number of pups, their foraging brings them ashore on beaches, wharves and anywhere adjacent to the ocean where they inevitably come in contact with humans.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Luc C. Légère
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, N.B.
506-851-7171

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Grey Seals and Humans - A Dangerous Mix

News Release

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